How about a Workshop?
Have you ever though about learning the language of your Scottish ancestors, Scottish dance, or even learning to play the great Highland Bagpipes? Each year our festival volunteers search for innovative ways to provide visitors with the opportunity to experience a bit of Scottish culture in a more "hands-on" environment.
Again in 2009 a wide variety of workshops will be offered for those looking for a truly "unique" cultural experience.
As space is limited,PRE-REGISTRATION TO WORKSHOPS is recommended.
SCOTTISH HEAVYWEIGHTS WORKSHOP |
Friday, May 29th (5:30 PM) |
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to try your hand at tossing the Stone or flipping the Caber? Well here's your chance!
20 pre-registered participants and instructors will meet at the athlete's venue for a hands-on, basic instructional clinic on the fundamentals of all Scottish Heavyweight Athletics events. This workshop is open to both Junior (20 yrs. & under) and Senior (over 20 yrs.) athletes - males and females alike!
Come and join in the "throw"! You never know, you just may want to continue with your skills development by participating in the Saturday amateur-class competition along side the "Big Lads"!
To learn more on these events and how to register, contact Dirk Bishop (506-273-3102) or Kevin Robinson (506-273-1105). Or e-mail via the Gathering of the Scots at athletes@gatheringofthescots.com.
SCOTTISH LIGHTWEIGHTS WORKSHOP |
Saturday, May 30th (12:30 PM) |
To appeal to the younger generation, a special "Scottish Light Events Workshop" will be hosted at the festival's Athletic venue Saturday morning to provide youth of all ages with the opportunity to enjoy a "scaled-down" version of the traditional events. Experienced instructors will supervise a lighthearted session where participants will learn the basics in such events as the Braemer Stone and the Caber toss.
And don't forget your kilt! If you don't have one just stop into the Gathering of the Scots Information tent and sign one out for the day - free of charge!!
To learn more on these events and how to register, contact Dirk Bishop (506-273-3102) or Kevin Robinson (506-273-1105). Or e-mail via the Gathering of the Scots at athletes@gatheringofthescots.com.
PICAROON'S BEER TASTING WORKSHOP |
Saturday, May 30st (1:00 PM) |
Why not sign up for an "educational" session on the finer points of beer tasting. Malts, Ales, or Stout - what makes each one unique?
Back by popular demand, Sean Dunbar (representing Picaroons Brewing Company of Fredericton, NB) will offer a session at the Beer Tasting Workshop. From ales to stouts and barley to hops, Sean has all the answers - and samples, that will leave you much more informed on the beverage of choice for many Atlantic Canadians (limited to participants19 years and older).
To learn more about the Beer Tasting Workshop and how to register, contact Rod MacIntosh (506-273-6710) or e-mail the Gathering of the Scots at info2@gatheringofthescots.com.
GAELIC LANGUAGE WORKSHOP |
Saturday, May 30th (1:00 PM) |
The Gaelic Language Workshop is always popular! Join renowned Gaelic instructor Helen Morag MacKinnon in a lighthearted session that will introduce you to the language of your ancestors!
Sign up early at the festival grounds. Look for the Gathering of the Scots Medieval Tent for more information!
INTRODUCTION TO BAGPIPES |
Saturday, May 30th (2:00 PM) |
Have you ever wondered what it takes play one of the most majestic musical instruments of all time - the Highland Bagpipes? For the first time at the Gathering, members of the Fredericton Society of Saint Andrew Pipe Band have offered to host a FREE "bagpipes and beginning chanter workshop" for visitors of all ages who are just curious, or might be interested in taking up this noble instrument! A session open to all ages, let these experts walk you through the beginning steps that all pipers take. This will be a very unique workshop that may start you on a journey through life with the Highland Bagpipes!
WHISKY TASTING WORKSHOP |
Saturday, May 30th (3:00 PM) |
How about enjoying a "wee dram" while learning the finer points on Scotland's National drink? For those of legal age, the Whisky Tasting Workshop should not be missed! Whether it's single or double malts, let Frank Scott of the New Brunswick Whisky Tasting Society help you appreciate the finer points of this historic drink.
HIGHLAND DANCE WORKSHOP |
Saturday, May 30th (3:30 PM) |
At one time very popular in the Upper Saint John River Valley, a renewed 
interest in Highland dancing is recently being shown in the area.
Qualified Dance instructor, Aril Wood from the Gaelach Breacan Dancers in Rothesay, NB will show beginners of all ages the fundamentals of traditional Scottish Dance at the Highland Dance Workshop.
To learn more on these events and how to register, contact Rod MacIntosh (506-273-6710) or e-mail the Gathering of the Scots at info2@gatheringofthescots.com.